AGRICULTURE PRODUCTION AND

EXTENSION PROGRAM

IN

MAHAWELI SYSTEM B

By
Y. P. DE SILVA

MARD PROJECT

PIMBURETTAWA

August 1995

(Report No. 256)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

SUMMARY ............................................

1.0 INTRODUCTION .......................................

2.0 INCREASE IN OFC PRODUCTION:

PRELIMINARY STRATEGY

..

3.0 EXPANSION IN OFC PRODUCTION: CONSTRAINTS, REMEDIAL

MEASURES AND SPECIAL PROGRAM

3.1 Constraints ...................................

3.1.1.
3.1.2.
3.1.3.
3.1.4.

3.1.5.
3.1.6.
3.1.7
3.1.8.

Financial resources .................

Availability of seed material .......
Production period ....................
Marketing ...........................
Soil Fertility ........................
Drainage ............................
Monocropping ..........................
Less utilization of Homesteads ......

3.2 Remedial measures and special programs ........

General

3.2.1.
3.2.2.
3.2.3.
3.2.4.
3.2.5.

3.2.6.
3.2.7.
3.2.8.
3.2.9.

Improved Credit and Seed Availability

11

Adjustment of planting times .........

12

Cropping patterns consolidation ......

12

Improve soil fertility ...............

Improved land and water management ... 12

Farmer beneficial program ............

Homestead Production Program ........... 12

Women's Farm ........................... 14

14

Agricultural Extension Program .......

Demonstration program ................. 16

3.2.10. Training ...................... o .

i7

4.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS ........................ 19

4.1 Seed availability ................................ 19

4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5

....
...
Producing for market windows ..........
Mixed cropping ...............
..............
Input supply ............................... ..
. .......
Marketing system ...................

19

20

20

20

20

4.6 Storage facilities .............................

4.7 Homestead Program ................................ 21

4.8 Banana Cultivation ........................

4.9 Seed commercialization Fund ....................

21

21

4.10 Extension Program ................................ 21

4.11 Demonstration Program ............................ 21

4.12 Training ..............

........

...............

22

SUMMARY

A major priority item of the policies of the Mahaweli Authority

of Sri Lanka (MASL) has been crop diversification, which, in the

Mahaweli System is referred to as the cultivation of Other Field

Crops in addition to paddy. The objectives of the policy aim at

increasing settlor farmers' incomes through cultivation of high

value crops; employment generation in commercial nucleus farms

linked to settlor outgrowers and contribution to increase foreign

exchange earnings. In regard to this, the MASL has made much

headway in the different systems although some of the latter

programs are saddled with inherent constraints.

In line with the MASL objectives the Mahaweli Agriculture and

Rural Development (MARD) Project of System B, placed emphasis on

dissemination of crop diversification concepts and made headway

towards implementing the same.

As at date, there are around 16,500 settlor families and the

settlement program is on-going. Each settlor family is allocated

with 1 hectare of paddy land and 0.2 hectare homestead. Crop

diversification is aimed at diversifying sections of their units,

to increase real incomes as that generated from paddy alone is

meager.

A logical approach to disseminate diversification techniques that

emerged from preliminary studies and observation was to formulate

production programs at turn out (T.O) and Unit level, continued

at Block level and finally implemented as an overall program for

System B. Formulation of production programs were carried around

identifying specific crops at T.O. level through farmer meetings

and informal discussions. Topics of importance discussed also

included input supplies and cultural practices.

During the course of implementation of this program from 1992 and

thereafter, significant increases were made in crop

diversification in terms of the number of farmers particularly

throughout System B. In terms of increases in area diversifiel,

significant programs were made only in some specific units. They

are discussed in Section 2.0. Major cause to this disparity was

the fact that in some units settlers arrived from areas where

there were very little agricultural activity or from areas

characterized by plantation agriculture. Further some settlers

had no agricultural background. Other constraints identified

included:

1. Lack of accessibility to financial resources

2. Limited or non-availability of high quality seed

material for planting

3. Adhering to traditional planting seasons and failure to

recognize the need to schedule planting to meet market

demands

4. Inherent limitations imposed by physical

characteristics of soil (low fertility) and also

chemical conditions of the Agro-ecological zones of

System B (high velocity winds, high temperature etc.)

5. Lack of a well organized system of agricultural

extension which would facilitate information transfer

from the MASL/Mahaweli Economic Agency to farmers and a

re-flow of information back to the authority reporting

specific issues.

6. Lack of an organized system of marketing on one hand

and market demand and need on the other.

These constraints are spelt out and discussed in Section 3.1.

In order to alleviate the above listed constraints and also to

extend production in homesteads together with specific program of

training/demonstration and women participation in agricultural

activities, remedial measures such as improved credit and seed

availability and supply of inputs, a seed commercialization fund,

mixed cropping and adjustment in planting times, consolidation of

cropping patterns, improvement in soil fertility and land and

water management, storage facilities, proper marketing systems

along with implementation of programs for Farmer benefits,

Homestead Production, Women's farms, Agricultural Extension,

Demonstration and training were recommended.

The above is detailed and discussed in Sections 3.2 and 4.0.

1.0

INTRODUCTION

This report embodies the professional activities of the author

during the last five years as an Extension Agronomist of the

Mahaweli Agricultural and Rural Development (MARD) Project in

System B of Mahaweli Agricultural and Rural Development Project

of Sri Lanka.
The author joined the MARD project in November

1990, by which time, MARD had completed its first two years of

operation.

The Primary objective of the Mahaweli Economic Agency (MEA)/MARD

Project in its efforts to help the farmers of System B, is to

increase their incomes and the quality of life through the

development and dissemination of technology for the production

and prucessing of new crops, new varieties of known crops and new

techniques for improving yields and reducing costs of production.

In keeping with the said main objectives, the agronomy section of

the MEA/MARD developed its strategy to extend the technology

required by settlers and commercial farmers to earn better

incomes from the limited extent of land available. The strategy

adopted emphasized on crop diversification including both new and

traditional high value crops.

The main methodological approach

adopted was farming systems research and extension.

The main task was to increase the land area under crops other

than Paddy in System B and seek strategies to maximize profit

from crop production.

To achieve the first task, it was required

to gather Knowledge about the physical resources available

(mainly land) and climatic conditions prevailing including

limitations; crop diversification in System B; constraints

farmers are faced with and means to obviate these conditions.

There are over 16,500 farmer families settled as at date in

System B and the settlement program is on going. These settlers

have their origins from various parts of the country. Priority

in selection is given to landless people rather than their

agricultural background.
Most of the settlers brought in during

the recent past were less agriculturally oriented. Their families

constitute an average of 3 to 5 members.

MEA has estimated that

these settlers should earn over Rs. 8,000/= per month per family

to sustain themselves, but recent observations indicate that

their income levels are far below the expectations.

Settlers are expected to earn this income from their allocated

one hectare of irrigated land and the quarter hectare of upland

homestead. Paddy cultivation, the main economic activity of

farmers in System B, is not consistent with sustainable economic

development.
The value of one hectare of paddy production does

not permit farmers to participate in the economic activities

required for development of markets and other commercial oriented

activities.
Over the years, paddy prices have declined in real

net income,

terms. Increased cost of inputs resulted in reduced

by taking

benefit
proving that farmers could not achieve expected
be

to
to paddy cultivation alone.
A strategy has therefore
from

benefits
worked out in order that farmers may reap economic
provide

as
as well
their unit of land to suffice their own needs
a commercially saleable output.

have introduced crop

MEA and MARD in keeping with its objective

farmer incomes.

raising
of
diversification to System B as a means
the

to
refers
Crop diversification in this instance
other crop

diversification from paddy to cultivation of

crops (HVC)

value
combinations which include vegetables, high
domestic and

-the
both
such as chilli, onion, okra and legumes for
export markets.

2.0

INCREASE IN OFC PRODUCTION : PRELIMINARY STRATEGIES

in November

At the time of the author's joining the MARD Project

in crop

activities
their
started
1990, the MEA\MARD had already
of

help
the
with
Agronomists
diversification.
MARD's Research
Aralaganwila

(RARC),
the Regional Agricultural Research Center
crops, different

had conducted on-farin trials where a number of

The results of

varieties and cultural practices were tested.

paddy could be

than
these trials confirmed that many crops other
had to be

cultivated successfully in System B.

This information
manner.

disseminated to the farmers in a more convincing

concepts

A pragmatic approach to disseminate crop diversification

crops as

was to organize Production Programs.

Some important first

well as farm techniques and cultural practices were

program was

identified.
Once these were selected, an extensionin their

planned to give farmers information and help them a small plot of

decision making, so that at least they could grow

It was

other field crops (OFCs) in their irrigated lands.

(T.O) level.

decided to organize production programs at turn-out

farmer

in their
A special team visited units to assist them
were held as

discussions
meetings,
informal
meetings.
In these
could have

to how farmers should select their crops, how they post planting

and
access to inputs, land preparation, planting,
to help the

mainly
were
care and harvesting. These discussions
farmers prepare their production programs.

data, Unit

Once the T.O programs were prepared, based on this Level Programs,

Unit
the
Level Prorams were prepared. Combining
consolidating

the Block
Level Programs were prepared and finallywere finalized.

of all these programs, the Project Level Programs

for the purpose

1 A unit is a geographical area demarcated

of physical

of administration and community services, consisting

resources of approximately 250 farm families.

Attention was concentrated on selection of crops and varieties

which would grow well in the area, and were acceptable to the

farmers and which would also generate higher incomes than from

paddy. Joint nurseries for chilli and onion were laid in each

unit. A considerable number of training classes were conducted

to train farmers on nursery management. Emphasis was given for

nursery bed preparation and management.

These strategies led to an increase in crop production in System

B during Yala 1991 compared to Yala 1990. The increase in

percent hectares was from 2.3% to 4.7%. During Yala 1991, 478

hectares of irrigated land were cultivated with other crops while

in Yala 1990, only 362 hectares were grown with qther crops.

MEA's and MARD's strategy had not only worked but had also

revealed major problems for which remedial measures had to be

adopted if significant increases in OFC production was to be

achieved in the future.

The percentage of farmers who diversified crop production during

Yala 1991 also increased. Approximately 36% of all farmers in

System B cultivated OFCs during Yala 1991 compared to 28% during

Yala 1990. Thirteen of fifty four units had more than 50% of the

farmers participating in the diversification program. However,

increases in incomes were disappointing due to serious problems

faced by two major cash crops and by general problems for all

crops. They are detailed in Section 3.0 below.

3.0 EXPANSION IN OFC PRODUCTION : CONSTRAINTS AND REMEDIAL

MEASURES

A number of problems that surfaced during Yala 1991 cultivation

program where new strategies were applied (vide: section 2.0

Paras 2, 3 and 4) showed that more effective administrative

orga-izational capability was needed to overcome them. Other

problems of inherent limitations in physical resources (eg

drainage, soil fertility, etc.) could only be ameliorated to some

extent. These constraints and measures to remedy/ameliorate them

are discussed below.

Growing chilli, a high income crop, became a high risk crop

because many fields were affected by Narrow Leaf Disease (NLD),

mites and virus complexes, some of which are yet to be

identified. It was difficult to tackle the problems identified.

All attempts made to solve them gave no feasible solutions, which

was disappointing.

Onion, another high income crop faced two major problems.

Firstly, due to poor quality of seed material, the crop did not

establish properly. Secondly, where there was a good harvest,

1 A block comprises about 05 to 08 units.

Farmers could not obtained a gocd price since the production

reached the market at the glut period. Those unfavourable

experiences were setbacks for the OFC program.

In 1990-1991, other than the serious problems with the two major

cash crops, there were also general constraints to all OFC

production.

3.1

Constraints

3.1.1

Financial Resources

The main sources of cash availability for fa-rmers for

cultivation operations were through formal and informal

credit sources. Formal credit facilities are available

through various banks oparating in the rural sector, whereas

informal sources operate at village level through various

modes. All formal credit facilities available are oriented

for paddy production. Farmers who had obtained paddy loans

were already in debt because paddy crop had become

uneconomical. They are thus unable to negotiate with banks

for any further loans. Therefore, due to lack of capital at

the planting season, farmers either delayed start in

cultivation or refrained from cultivation.

3.1.2.

Availability of Seed Material

There is no regular system vet for farmers to obtain seeds

of acceptable quality in System B. Few traders bring seeds

from outside areas and sell them without any guarantee or a

proper system and in general the private sector support is

weak. Further, the Department of Agriculture has reduced

its intervention as seed suppliers. On the other hand, MEA

financial regulations do not permit them to handle this

aspect satisfactorily. The need for high quality seeds and

planting material well in advance of the planting time is of

top priority, being a major constraint in OFC production.

3.1.3

Production Period

The cultivation seasons of System B falls in line generally

with the usual seasons adopted in other areas within the

same agro-ecological zone. Therefore, farmers find it

difficult to compete with established areas like System H

and Dambulla due to the distance from main markets and the

cost of transport involved in this regard. Also during glut

periods the prices will be low. Therefore to overcome this

problem, the cultivation pattern should be shifted so that

production will not coincide with the peak period.

3.1.4.

Marketing

More often than not, vegetable production in System B could

not fit in to a suitable market and the produce was either

sold at a lower price or else perished . At times, farmers

even brought their produce to a 'pola' (local fair) and

managed to sell at a lower price. Basically there was no

marketing structure to accommodate a rapid and expanding

crop production program. There may not be any ready-made

solutions for such problems, but this aspect should be

considered as a key factor for any expansion in field crops

or vegetable crop production in System B.

3.1.5.

Soil Fertility

Majority of soils of System B are reported to be low in

fertility. Crop production data of 1991 clearly showed

that, wherever green manure and cowdung were used,

production was high. Specially with chilli crop, the

vegetative growth and the yield, registered a marked

increase. This is true for all other crops as well. Since

the soils in System B are coarse textured, organic manire

such as rotted cattle manure and/or use of green manures

like sunhemp should be incorporated as part of the OFC

cultivation program.

3.1.6.

Poor Drainage

The landscape of System B is almost flat to gently rolling,

which makes the overall drainage of water difficult. In

addition, a considerable extent of soils have a semi

impervious layer closer to the surface. Both these factors

result in high ground water table with the slightest rain.

In addition, the poor drainage conditions on irrigable

allotments where OFCs are grown due to seepage of water from

paddy fields, is also a problem. Proper land preparation

with raised beds, collector drains and ex-farm drainage

canal maintenance were also major causes of drainage

problem.

3.1.7.

Monocropping

Most of the OFC farmers opt far for a monocropping system

when they grow OFCs, which results in a high risk on income,

if the crop failed. Such a failure is more damaging for

crops which needs costly inputs. As mentioned at the

beginning, some farmers even had to undergo losses on their

investments.

3.1.8.

Low Utilization of Homesteads

System B has about 19,000 homesteads of 0.2 hectare each,

with some having even the facility of year-round irrigation.

However, these homesteads are hardly utilized for either

commercial purposes or as a source of supplemental income.

Considering the total area of all the homesteads and the

facilities available in the vicinity, this can be considered

as a good potential for increasing the productivity of the

area.

3.2

Remedial Measures and Special Programs

General

The eight major constraints identified in the preceding section

could to a great extent be remedied and the adverse effects of

some (limitations in soil-site characteristics) mitigated to a

somewhat lesser degree. Measures are presented below which have

been implemented and/or need modification for further

implementation. In addition special programs were commenced and

also discussed.

3.2.1

Improved Credit and Seed Availability

During planning sessions farmer groups expressed a great

interest to grow other crops. However, during the

implementation stage, the numbers fell. The main reason

given for not planting is the inability to purchase seeds in

time. To overcome this situation, it was decided to

organize a credit program that will help farmers to purchase

their seed requirements in time, but at the same time making

certain that the loan is paid back. Individual loans were

not encouraged as there was no mechanism for recovery.

After careful consideration, it was decided to make

available a Commercialization Fund Grant for selected farmer

organizations (FOs), so that they could provide loans to

their members. In this respect, 9 FOs were selected and

Rs.l.8 million was granted. Farmer Organizations signed an

agreement with their members before giving them seeds as

requested. As shown below 1,042 farmers were benefitted

under this program.

Simultaneously, special training and extension programs were

implemented to educate the farmers under the supervision by

the extension staff. Agricultural Officers (AOs) and Field

Assistance (FAs) visited their fields at least once a week.

Table 1 shows the extent increased.

TABLE 1

: Comparison of Crop Diversification during

Yala 1992 and Yala 1993

Model Unit

Medagama
Ihalawewa
Mahadamana
Thispanegama
Kalingawila
Muthuwela
Diggalapitiya
Orabendisiyabalawa
Magulpokuna

OFC
Extent(ha)

OFC
Extent(ha)

Yala 1992

Yala 1993

14.47
13.49
14.93
6.86
26.35
6.25
22.04
54.07
11.68

42.60
32.60
16.00
42.00
31.95
16.25
36.50
107.10
12.39

Percent
Increase
194.40%
141.66%
7.17%
512.24%
21.25%
160.00%
63.63%
93.75%
6.07%

The table indicates that the extents have increased with the

new program introduced, in all the selected units. In

Mahadamana and Maguldamana units, extents increased by 200%.

Crops promoted were big onion, ground nut, vegetables and

pulses. At the end of the season, farmers have paid back

the loans to FOs as agreed. Recovery rate was over 90%.

Except one organization, all the other organizations repaid

in time. Officers and farmer leaders closely monitored this

program. With the experiences of a successful Yala season

in 1993, similar programs were extended to another 27

organizations, in Yala 1994 where Rs. 2.7 million was

granted. In these units too, extent increased and 2,098

farmers received loans. However, recovery rate was poor

compared to Yala 1993. Reasons identified are as follows:

.1 In some farmer organizations the criteria for selection

was not fully adhered to, owing to difficulties in

selection faced by farmer organizations.

.2 MEA officers and FO officers did not get actively

involved in the required period. Recovery should have

been started immediately after harvest when farmers had

cash at hand.

.3 Farmer Organizations complained on the low quality of

the seed supply. In some instances, the seeds did not

reach the farmer in time. Due to above problems, the

program was re-organized.

10

The same grant was extended to another 10 organizations and

the FOs decided to make seeds available in time. In the

revised program FOs brought their own requirements of seeds

and sold it direct to their members. The result of this

program is yet to be evaluated.

Through this program nearly Rs. 3.5 million had been granted

to farmer organizations. If this money is to be properly

utilized for the purpose for which it is meant, this could

serve as a revolving fund to meet the entire- requirement of

seeds in System B. However, the past experiences indicate

that such revolving of money has not happened ap expected.

In most instances, FOs have used this money for various

activities other than for purchasing seeds and as a result

there were no funds available when it was required for the

purpose of purchasing seeds. However, this program needs

more attention from both MEA and FOs.

3.2.2

Adjustment of Planting Times

In the dry zone, generally, plant nurseries for Yala season

are laid out in late-April or early-May due to water

scarcity during other periods. Farmers have to wait for

Yala rains which are experienced during mid-April. However

farmers in System B do not have to wait for the rains even

though they are accustomed to start cultivations after

It is only in System B that irrigation water is

ra.&ns.
available throughout the year and this advantage should be

utilized to gain better markets for the produce. For

example, big onion production comes to the market during

August-September period, and shortages occur during either

side of this period resulting in very high prices. If

farmers prepare their nurseries in early March, the produce

could be harvested during late July or early August when the

prices are higher. Further if they start the nurseries late

as June, harvesting could be done during late-October.

Another aspect in maximizing is by increasing plant

intensity and harvesting early so that the crop can be sold

as a green vegetable, which is in high demand. The same

pattern could be followed in the case of other vegetables.

For instance, a farmer from Bimpokuna unit started his egg

plant nursery in early September and harvested during

December and January. He used the upper areas of his

irrigable lands for cultivations and he was able to purchase

a water pump and other accessories from the income he

received by selling his produce. Some farmers who did

similar cultivation of vegetables during the off-season,

received a substantial income from their crops.

11

3.2.3
Cropping Pattern Consolidation

During the Maha-season farmers cultivated

paddy in irrigable

lands and during Yala season selected

areas
were brought

under cultivation of other crops.

These
fields
were again

subjected to land preparation techniques

(ploughing,

harrowing and puddling) for a follow

up paddy crop. The need

for operaticns on fields to re-convert

them for OFC planting

(destroying field dykes, bed preparation,

drainage drains

etc.)
causes a delay in their other
essential agricultural

activities and additional cost have

to be incurred. If

farmers select upper areas of the irrigable

lands wherever

possible and set apart for continuous

OFC
production
during

both seasons, that would save them

money and time.

3.2.4 Improving Soil Fertility

The approaches to soil fertility improvements

can be at the

field itself or at homestead level

as
well.
residues such as straw, which are abundantly The crop

available in

System B can be made into organic manure

like
compost,

cattle and green manure.

Knowledge
on
importance
of

application of organic manure and the

skills on methods of

developing such manures in a short

imparted to officers and farmers of time, are already

the area, through

demonstrations.

3.2.5 Improved Land and Water Management

Improved land preparation methods

necessary for OFC

cultivation to minimize damage to are

crops from poor drainage.

In addition, rain water should also

be drained off as
soon

as possible with the leL-st damage to

the soil. For this

purpose, a number of demonstrations

were
held on the

irrigation and drainage layout as recommended

Department of Agriculture for OFC cultivation.
by the

FARMER BENEFICIAL PROGRAM

3.2.6

Homestead production programs

This was another area of emphasis where

realized that homesteads were production MEA and MARD

units where the

farmers could increase their family

income.

The objective

is to improve the productive capacity

of the homestead in

System B.

This could be promoted in two ways

viz.

Growing for domestic consumption;

12

for the

Commercial production to earn additional income

family.

were

To meet the above dbjectives the following programs

implemented.

.1

The cultivation of permanent tree crops

(medicinal

.2
Short term crops cultivated for the market
pulses)

and
crops, vegetables
other dairy

.3
Rearing of poultry, ducks, goats, and
animals

such as

.4
Small scale agro based cottage industries and packeting

pickling, production of dried vegetables,

of rice and fresh vegetables.

.5

Introducing a new system of compost preparation

Compost heap instead of compost pits.

increase the

The above programs were introduced in order to

uniform in

not
are
households
income level of farmers as the
access to

soils,
size,
nature, with respect to land holding
is .2 ha

it
though
Even
water, labour, capital and inputs.

System B

in
homestead
per family, when the entire area under
which

extent
is taken into consideration, it forms a large
could be utilized for commercial purposes.

selected as

In implementing this program, 50 homesteads were

model homesteads during 1991.

As long term crops - coconut,

with timber

mango, jak and other fruit trees and also trees

nut,

ground
value .ere supplied. As short term crops
introduced.

were
chilli, potato, egg plant and capsicum
medicinal

With the technical assistance from CISIR, three

Senehekola

crops were introduced. They were Katuwelbatu, the market

and Kapukinissa.
It was not difficult to find
a demand

for these medicinal crops as already there was

the

locally.
During field days and in training sessions
as production

farmers felt that homesteads could be used

for the seed

especially
units with a greater potential,
units, 40

Weheragama
and
production prograi.
In Bimpokuna
for

program
production
homesteads participated in a seed
in the

used
was
ground nut and red onion.
The seed produced
following season.

unemployed

For the second generation of settlers who were project in

pilot
a
as
supplied,
were
and landless, pullets
took a

Pimburattewa and Damminna.

Even though the farrers
of them could

keen interest at the initial stages where some

yield the

not
did
program
gain profits.
On the whole, the
of poultry

cost
expected results due to marketing problems,
13

feed and inadequate veterinary care.

If the said

out to

constraints are overcome, the program could be worked

benefit the settlerst

During this period various other activities were initiated

to promote various aspects of homestead development. Green

manure, compost preparation, soil conservation, fuel

efficient stoves, food preservation etc. are some of the

activities conducted. According to reports the estimated

income from homestead was over Rs. 39.9 million. An average

income per family cultivating homestead was Rs. 2551/=.

Also the average homestead income per family was 31% of the

income of 1.0 ha. of paddy production. With the recognition

this program commanded and the income which was generated

from homestead as well, women's groups in particular

responded actively to this program.

3.2.7

Women's Farms

On the lines of the MEA/MARD the production program detailed

earlier, the MEA set apart selected reservation land for

youth and women who showed interest to cultivate these lands

on a collective basis. They formed women's groups and youth

groups and initiated on their program. MEA/MARD assisted

them technically and financially. Cash crops like big

onion, chilli, ground nut and pulses were cultivated. After

three seasons of continued assistance, youth groups

abandoned their farms but women's groups are still

continuing successfully.
One such group at Ellewewa block

was selected as the best women's group in the Island at a

competition conducted by Agromart.

The Aluthwewa women's

farm have initiated a credit scheme for their members with

the money they earned from the farm. Sustainability of

these farms largely depends on the support and the

encouragement forthcoming from MEA.

As a result of the continued efforts made by MEA/MARD,

extent and the number of farmers who took to the cultivation

of other crops have increased.

3.2.8

Agricultural Extension Program

To implement a production program as that envisaged and

designed, an effective extension program is necessary. The

responsibility of implementing such a program largely falls

on the shoulders of the MEA extension division.

The extension division is responsibie for the informal out

reach education in which the knowledge generated from

research as well as
on-farm trials are made available

through extension to farm families.

14

From
the project level to the grass root level there is
a

hierarchy of officers whose responsibility is to implement

this program. At the unit level there is

a Field Assistant

(FA) for approximately every 250 farmer families. At this

level the needs and problems nre identified according to the

production program. Based on the production program,

extension messages were prepared. During planning sessions

with Field Assistant (FA), detailed discussion were held by

Agricultural Officer (AO) in order to highlight the points

to be stressed in their farm visits. Since farmers were new

to the crops and/or start-.d with little experience, all the

details had to be worked out carefully. During those

sessions everyone agreed to give priority for qultural

practices and management of crops. After finalizing the

stress points, the details were worked out and the extension

program prepared. The prepared program was a stable

guidance but flexible enough to meet the mixed farming

audience.

However, the implementation of the program appeared to be

ineffective at times, apparently because the reciprocal

communication with respect to importance among various

implementing stages does not take place as expected. The

required guidance was also not effective.

MEA officers are good in their planning cf extension

programs, at the grass root level. However during the

implementation stage, there are setbacks due to lack of

supervisory management. This is a serious problem specially

where agricultural extension is concerned. Present MEA

agricultural extension structure is

not based on a vertical

line of command. It reeds a proper management system in

order to implement the program effectively. If this

continuity lapses at any stage, the entire program will not

achieve the desired results. For example, if AOs are unable

to actively supervise the FAs and take necessary corrective

measures, extension activities in the field may not take

place as planned.

Some of the problems identified are presented below.

.1 Logistic problems - Project Agricultural staff

complains of the inadequacy of transport facilities to

perform their field visits effectively. Until recently,

they
were left with only one vehicle for five SMOs,

while they had different tasks to perform in the field.

As a
result very often they are confined to the office.

.2 Bi-weekly training - Two training programs are

conducted fortnightly, one at Mahaweli Research and

Training Center (MRTC) and the other at Welikanda. The

arrangements were to provide transport to FAs and AOs

15

to come for these programs. During the past, at least

30% of the programs either had to be cancelled or

conducted with less participants than expected, due to

non availability of transport.

.3 Even at the block level, AOs were without regular

transport as most of them do not use motor cycles and

the only four wheel vehicle available at the block is

more often than not, unavailable to them.

Theoretically they should visit the field at least 3

days during a week. Some AOs said that they are unable

to visit fields at least 3 days per month.

Due to this situation in most of the units FAs, are

left on their own with the field programs. As such

there is a tendency for some FAs to work, but majority

may not. Past experiences show that wherever effective

supervision is prevalent, results were encouraging.

.4 There is hardly any incentive program available for

officers who would make an effective output. There

should be a clearly defined incentive program which

needs to be communicated to all categories of officers.

Supervision is perhaps the area that needs immediate

attention. The above problems are more or less related

to performance issues than to skill development. An

officer who has a performance problem, may not benefit

from training on technical subject matter.

3.2.9

Demonstration Program

Production and extension programs have always to be

supported by a demonstration program. Crops introduced as

well as cultural practices are new to the farmers, and as

such, they need special attention and should be demonstrated

to the farmers in their fields. In 1991 over 300

demonstrations were conducted in six blocks in which chi.li,

big onion and vegetable crops were included. Field days

were organized and the results showed an impressive impact

during that season. However, during the subsequent seasons,

when continuing the program, it was found that due to

inadequate supervision the quality of demonstrations were

not up to expectations. Apparently, in some instances it

had given a negative effect rather than a positive one.

Owing to the above situation field staff agreed to reduce

the demonstration number and increased the plot size where

they could supervise the demonstrations effectively. After

identifying the suitable crops, large demonstrations (half

acre) with those crops were organized during 1994 Yala.

16

However, the program needs close attention.

The author's recommendation for the demonstration prcgram,

is to obtain the active participation of farmers who are

directly involved in a specific activity for which a

demonstration is desired. These farmers should be helped

with only the technical guidance. Subsequently, these fields

could be used as demonstration plots. This type of package

of practices was implemented as a trial by MEA where inputs

were not supplied but only the training of farmers was

imparted. This strategy adopted in a few locations have

shown encouraging results.

It was observed that some times field days were not

conducted even for better demonstrations. if it is not

possible to organize field days for bigger groups, they may

be organized for even smaller groups like the turnout

groups, to discuss the impact.

Banana demonstration in irrigable lands were introduce

during late 1994. Initially farmers were given all the

inputs required and two demonstrations per block. It was a

very successful program where the farmers showed greater

interest and the extent increased in all these blocks.

The author is of the view that with little support, banane,

extent in irrigable lands will increase appreciably. One

problem identified was the lack of quality suckers to be

purchased within System B. Often planted suckers are not of

the expected variety due to difficulty in identifying them

during early stages. It is suggested to have a mother plant

selection program and established nurseries in blocks for

use in the future.

3.2.10

Training

There were a large number of training programs conducted for

both farmers and officers on all subjects pertaining to

agricultural extension. From the inception of the project

till end of June, 1995 over 75,000 person days have been

spent on training.

In these training programs, officers were trained on

extension methodology, crop husbandry, development of

training material, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and

other relevant subjects with view to improving knowledge and

skills of the officers who were the trainers for farmers.

In officer training, they were trained bi-weekly on subject

matter, extension methodology and communication. Various

in-service training programs were organized at different

training institutes. Special audio visual training programs

17

were conducted and training materials prepared. Available

booklets and leaf lts on crop husbandry were introduced and

set of plant protection information were made available.

With the officer training, simultaneously, farmer training

at turnout level was also organized. In most of these

training programs, audio-visuals were used. For these

raining material were

training classes the following -prepared.

Booklets on chilli, onion, potato and nursery

management was prepared and published (over 5000 copies
on each).

Various slides, transparencies and flip charts were

prepared and some were brought from Department of
Agriculture, Peradeniya.

Posters to highlight the relevant events

A video film was prepared on crop diversification

officers were equipped with relevant training accessories,

such as flip charts, portable chalk boards, slides, flannel

boards, leaflets and stationery.

It was observed that the officers have the required

knowledge and skills for agricultural extension programs.

What needs to be strengthened is the field application of

such acquired knowledge and skills.

In this regard supervision and guidance have to be

strengthened both at project level and block levels. At the

end of the MARD project, due to lack of adequate funds,

training programs may not take place, to the same degree.

To overcome this situation, effort should be made to utilize

the knowledge they have already acquired to put into

practice in the field.

18

4.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

in

Sixteen thousand five hundred settlers have been settled in the

area

the
System B and more settlers will be brought into
to

near future. For sustainable development it is

important
a better

introduce a cropping program which should give them

it has

However
paddy.

is
crop
main
income. At present their
in System B.

been proved that paddy alone could not hold farmers

yields

This does not mean that attempts made to improve paddy

has been

trend
the
past,
recent
should be overlooked. During the
1992

in
while
example,
a decline in the paddy yields. For
4.3 MY/ha.

production was 5 MT/ha, in 1994 it has come down to

late

yields,
low
Of the factors that have contributed to such
water

early
cultivation has been a major factor.
Even though
of this

i-ues have been scheduled, farmers have not made use

the

opportunity to do a timely cultivation in keeping with

Feason. To overcome this situation both the MEA and farmer

organizations have to make a determined effort to organize

and

farmers to commence land preparation before end March

of April,

end
the
by
varieties
planting to be done for long term
said

this
With
and short term varieties accordingly.
integrated

requirements, the extension program for weed control,

cultural

other
pest management, fertilizer application and
practices should take off the ground simultaneously.

need

To strengthen the other crops program, the following areas

greater attention.

4.1

Seed Availability

At present there is
no proper and regular supply of seed

in time

materials to the farmers. Availability of quality seeds

In

program.
crops
other
has to ensure to implement a successful
to

importers
seed
this regard introducing reliable and suitable
seeds

Farmer Organizations, needs to be taken up.

For instance,
mid-

for crops such as b'onion should reach the farmer by

is desirable

February.
In the case of locally available seeds it level. Red

to promote a seed production program at the homestead category.

onion and ground nut are outstanding examples in this

to be

At the same time the commercial farmers in the system have

vegetable

of
production
the
encouraged and persuaded to get into
out into

seeds.
Already a few commercial farmers have ventured
this sphere of activity.

4.2

Producing for Market Windows

The normal pattern that exists at present is to produce

vegetables during a season where the production is widespread

However

throughout the country mostly in the main growing areas.

the

throughout
available
in the case of System B as water is
could be

year,
in order to overcome the glut period, cultivation
the

encourage
To
staggered to cater for more profitable markets.
19

farmers, the market infcrmation system should be made readily

available to them to produce according to demand. There are

already successful programs conducted for future guidance.

4.3

Mixed cropping

It was found that various crops could be grown successfully in

System B. Our past experience shows that it is desirable to

promote mixed cropping pattern rather than monocropping. By

following the former patterns, farmers could obtain cash benefits

from at least one or two crops, even if the others failed. Crop

combinations suitable for higher net income have been identified

and documented.

4.4 Input Supply

When input supply is considered, there are over 200 chemical

dealers operating in System B. Their turn-over is over 20

million rupees per year. It is often observed that these dealers

sell out-dated, unsuitable and restricted chemicals in the area.

Therefore, it is opportune now to encourage farmer organizations

to take over the aspect of input supplies and provide a better

and reliable services to the community. MEA should coordinate,

train and assist the farmer organizations in implementing the

program. Other inputs such as fertilizer also could be organized

on similar lines.

4.5

Marketing System

As far as marketing is concerned, there is a lack of a proper and

dependable system operating in System B. This should not be a

hindrance to implementation of production programs. if there is

substantial production, the traders will be attracted. For

example, during the paddy harvesting season traders are attracted

from other areas because there is substantial production of

paddy. This clearly shows production and marketing should go

together and that it is difficult to promote one without the

other. At the initial stages, it is desirable to promote

traders from nearby towns such as Kaduruwela and Mahiyanganaya.

This aspect needs immediate attention and the MEA should play a

key role in intervening between local traders and the farmer

organizations. Weekly "polas" in all the blocks could serve as

another catalyst to promote marketing.

4.6

Storage Facilities

In promoting the production program, the storage facilities also

need to be improved. A good example for this, is the onion

storage program conducted in Block G that gave the farmers better

cash returns than if they did sell during harvesting time. There

is every possibility of System B becoming the onion belt in the

future. To meet this challenging situation, provision of

20

facilities for

suitable seed material in time, and improving

Onion storage

introduced
storage also are necessary. The newly
farmers.

the
structures should be made popular among
4.7

Homestead Program

in the homestead, a

As there are many variations and differences

consideration

special program has to be launched, taking into

have shown

each individual setting.

The demonstrations conducted
an

give
the possibility of developing the allotments to
program needs

This
community.
settler
the
to
economical benefit
special attention.

4.8

Banana Cultivation

is Banana.

Another crop that was found suitable for System B

increased

lands
During recent past, banana extent on irrigable
could earn

farmers
considerably. Demonstrations conducted showed,
suitable

a good income from banana. To promote this program, launching of

planting material have to be provided along with the

an effective extension program.

4.9

Seed Commercialization Fund

four million

Farmer Organizations have received a sum of Rupees

money is

This
seeds.

as a Commercialization Fund to purchase

B, if it

System
in
adequate to meet the entire seed requirement
serve

could
investment
is properly managed for the purpose. This
program.

the
as
a revolving fund if MEA and FO closely monitored
4.10

Extension Program

to cater

Agricultural extension program needs revamping in order

there is a

to the present demand. Due to logistic constraints,

on them,

more
concentrate
and
need to identify priority areas
regular

and
Systematic
while not neglecting the other areas.
and an

staff
field
the
for
supervision system needs to be evolved
effort

genuine
that
incentive scheme also needs to be devised so
is recognized and rewarded.

4.11

Demonstration Program

programs have

It is observed that properly managed demonstration

by field

accompanied
fields
to be implemented in the farmers'
Rather

farmers.
the
of
training.
This has also been the request
for

inputs
the
all
than following the present system of providing
good

a
of
demonstrations, it is desirable to obtain support
farmer and provide only the technical assistance.

21

4.12

Training

According to the data available, nearly 75,000 person days have

been spent by both farmers and officers on training. Crop census

also reveal that even though only 6% (% expressed as area under

OFC/total area of all allotments) of the area has gone under

diversified crops, approximately, 60% of all farmers have taken

upto other crops even in a small way. This position indicates

that the farmers have acquired the required knowledge on crop

diversification, but due to other reason they are reluctant to

cultivate on a large scale. What is required at present is to

overcome the constraints and implement well-organized and

realistic programs. So far, the agricultural prqgram has not

received required priority when compared with other programs like

housing and sports etc.

22